A Homage to my Grandmothers
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Sunset Desire is a collection of domestic + personal art pieces that are inspired by my Grandma Angie and Grandmother Reine. This heartfelt homage to the enduring legacies of two remarkable women who shaped my identity and artistic vision. Drawing inspiration from their distinct backgrounds and aesthetics, this collection weaves together the timeless charm of Americana working-class style with the bucolic beauty of French Provencal folk art and domestic design.
Born and raised in Flint, Michigan, Angie's journey epitomizes resilience and adaptability. From her days as a Rosie the Riveter during WWII to her later roles as a homemaker and food service worker, she exuded a sense of style and grace that transcended her everyday life. Her affinity for old Hollywood, and her fondness for Kmart, imbues this collection with a sense of glamour and magic of the mundane. We spent many afternoons watching old movies and listening to her tales of dancing during her youth. My Grandma Angie brought her Avon perfume, prayer cards, and her rosary wherever she lived. Her sense of personal style included butterfly clips in her hair, cheetah print, and bright colors.
The indelible influence of my grandmother, Reine, whose immigration from the sun-drenched landscapes of Southern France and the cool blues of the Mediterranean Sea to the heart of Northwest Arkansas transformed her home into a living repository of folk art and high plains craftsmanship. Her home bore witness to the rich tapestry of her French roots with the fusion of the Ozark, creating a unique aesthetic that celebrated both her origins and her newfound home. Her love for nature and landscape was present throughout her domestic design, this collection serves as a reverent tribute to her legacy, evoking the warmth and nostalgia of her home, where every corner was adorned with art made by herself and her husband. Reine was an incredibly skilled textile artist. Her large-scale tapestries are some of our most cherished heirlooms in our family. She also had a wonderful collection of fairy tales and children’s books. One of my favorite books as a child was a picture book that she gave me of cats doing domestic chores.
As I translate their legacy into visual form, I invite viewers to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of Sunset Desire, where the past converges with the present, and the beauty of composting culture blooms anew.
Through the Sunset Desire collection, I aim to celebrate the rich tapestry of my family's history and the enduring influence of these remarkable women. Each piece is a testament to their strength, creativity, and unwavering commitment to self-expression. Just as my grandmothers never left the house without lipstick and earrings, this collection embodies a love for domestic design, the magic of the mundane, and those who create beauty wherever they go.